A CUMBRIAN hospice has been backed by a Swedish company to allow them to open a new research lab.
St Mary's Hospice in Ulverston officially opened the clinical skills lab, which will help train nurses in the area.
The site, which costs around £4,500, was sponsored by Vattenfall, the energy company that operates the Ormonde Offshore Wind Farm just off the coast of Barrow.
St Mary’s practice educator Nikki Fisher said: “When our staff are looking after patients, whether that’s at our In-Patient Unit, or out in the community, they can come across lots of different situations.
“The skills lab enables us to train more people, more quickly, so that they’re really well equipped to deal with a range of issues, including things like pressure sores and complex needs, such as helping a patient who has a tracheostomy."
The facility will provide a safe environment for new and old recruits alike to practice the skills that will make a huge difference in the county.
“We’ve got a great, experienced staff - but everyone has to learn and continue learning to always be on top of the latest best practice in palliative care," Nikki added.
Mimi Mwasame, Vattenfall’s Stakeholder and Community Engagement Manager, explained that the company were 'delighted' to support the hospice, saying: "The dedication and compassion of the staff at St Mary’s Hospice make an immeasurable impact on the lives they touch."
"Together, we stand united in supporting causes that make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families during their most challenging moments.”
According to Annabelle Holloway, St Mary’s new Corporate Partnerships Manager, funding from businesses such as Vattenfall can often prove to be the most vital resource for local organisations.
"We’re really grateful that we have such a supportive community - we really couldn’t do what we do for the community without their help," she said.
"But it’s also important that businesses step forward and help us, both local ones and multinationals, with local links, and, of course, many already do."
If your business would like to support the business, you can contact Annabelle at fundraising@stmaryshospice.org.uk.
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